Finnish prosecutors have filed terrorism-related charges against Simon Ekpa, a dual Finnish-Nigerian citizen and self-proclaimed leader of a separatist movement advocating for the independence of Nigeria’s South-East region, Biafra. The charges include public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent and participation in the activities of a terrorist group, allegedly carried out in Lahti, Finland, between 2021 and 2024.
Although Finland’s National Prosecution Authority did not name the suspect, public broadcaster YLE confirmed Ekpa’s identity. A prominent figure in the movement to restore the defunct Republic of Biafra, Ekpa claims leadership of a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which has been banned and labeled a terrorist group by the Nigerian government.
Authorities allege Ekpa used online platforms to incite violence that fueled unrest in southeastern Nigeria, possibly leading to attacks on civilians and government officials. The case is part of a joint investigation between Finnish and Nigerian authorities.
Ekpa, who was detained in November 2024 and remains in custody, denies the allegations. He previously served as a local representative of Finland’s conservative National Coalition Party and was a member of a public transport committee in Lahti.
